Trump Scraps Kansas, Iowa Rallies for Virtual Alternatives
The Facts
- The Republican National Committee (RNC) announced Thursday that U.S. President Donald Trump has canceled his weekend rallies in Kansas and Iowa in favor of a series of tele-rallies. However, an in-person event in Daytona Beach, Florida, is still scheduled for Friday.
- According to a press release from MAGA Inc., a Trump-affiliated super PAC, the president will appear in tele-rallies across 19 states, including Alabama, Alaska, Michigan, Nevada and Texas, with possibly more to be announced.
- In a statement, RNC Chairman Joe Gruters called the effort a "72-hour sprint" to boost Republican candidates' chances in the closing days of the midterms, with GOP control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate hanging in the balance.
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The Spin
Pro-Trump narrative
Trading an arena stage for virtual rallies is a smart strategic decision that extends the president's reach in the last, vital days of campaigning. Any suggestion that this has anything to do with Trump's health or fitness is nonsensical. After grinding out dozens of rallies in the past month, he has already proven beyond doubt that he's fit for any challenge.
Anti-Trump narrative
Bailing on ruby-red Kansas and Iowa in the closing days says plenty about a campaign running on fumes. Half-empty venues, supporters ducking out early and protesters hijacking the punchlines hardly signal a movement surging toward victory. It is no wonder that Trump has decided to ditch these rallies altogether, preferring the safety of a phone line.
